Time to Play Names Top Spring and Summer Picks

Just a few months out of Toy Fair, one would think I’d be toy-ed out. Not so much, friends. Time to Play’s showcases are some of my favorite events to attend, not only because they focus on the best toys, but because it’s a great one-on-one networking event. I get to ask questions and really get into the nitty gritty of what’s hot (and not) in the toy realm.

At this year’s Time to Play Spring Showcase, the manufacturers displayed a small selection of their latest wares. And because it was the Spring Showcase, most toymakers had goodies and gadgets suited for spring and summer play, as well as toys that complement this summer’s blockbuster movie hopefuls.

Here’s the round up of what Time to Play thinks that’s hot for this Spring.

LEGO Friends

LEGO prettied some of their sets to create this line geared to girls. LEGO Friends has parents both loving and despising this girl-centric line, but one thing you can’t ignore that it has people talking. My thoughts: LEGO is and will always be a brand that families know and trust, even if those tiny pieces can stab you in the feet when you step on them. I may not be a mom of girls, but I’ve seen my nieces and friends’ kids’ play patterns. Building blocks are well known to encourage creativity and logic, if making LEGOs pink and purple gets the girls inspired, then so be it.

LaLaLoopsy Littles

These characters continue to engage girls with their quirky style and funky fashions. The Littles are portable and convenient for smaller hands.

Monsuno Cores, Wild Core and Strike Launcher

Monsuno is a show that’s become super popular quite recently, so naturally, the toys are following suit. This is a line from Jakks that I need to learn more about to get a better grasp. One thing I do know? My next door neighbor’s grandson is a huge fan and gave these toys a thumbs up.

Monster High Operetta, Rochelle Goyle and Toralei dolls

The storied characters continue to get girls talking. There’s a huge fan base for Monster High, so it’s no surprise these gals made it on to the TTP list.

Skylanders Wave 4 Figures

Where do I even begin with Skylanders? My family is completely smitten with Skylanders, just like many of yours, I’m imagining. In fact, at Toys R Us just a few weeks ago, I almost had to wrestle a kid for a certain character. Skylanders characters are hot! I’ll go more into detail about Skylanders later, but don’t expect this franchise to die down anytime soon.

Squishy Baff

My first thought? This messy stuff is gross and won’t ever find its way in my bathtub. Part of that statement is true; Spinmaster sent me a sample, and while it didn’t find its way into the tub, it did entertain my 4 year old for hours. He played with it on the deck, and I have to say, my opinion about it has totally changed. I don’t love it, but the kid sure does! More on this soon!

Movie Toys

The Dark Knight Rises The Bat

Imaginext DC Super Friends Batcave

The big kid received this as his big birthday present last year. Of all the toys we’ve bought in recent years, it’s perhaps been the best investment. Kids are drawn to it when they come over to play, and my kid continues to play with it regularly as well. It’s perfect for role playing and exercising creative, imaginative play.

Classic Battleship Movie Edition Game

The Amazing Spider-Man Electronic Figure

Merida: Disney/Pixar’s Brave Merida Doll, Disney/Pixar’s Brave Merida Forest Adventure

• I can’t WAIT for Brave. Actually, the husband can’t wait for it either. Whenever we see the commercials, it sparks a conversation on how it’s exciting to see a non-girly redhead in the lead role of a Disney story. That said, I can’t wait for all of these toys to hit the shelves!

Outdoor Fun:

Outdoor toys are some of my favorite! I loved the ones they picked, but would’ve loved to see something that might engage the older girls as well. What? I’m not sure….
I’m working on a piece on my favorite outdoor toys, so expect to see a few of these on that list.